What does a Lean Practitioner do?

In recent years there has been a high demand for skilled Lean Practitioners who can contribute to the successful running of business operations. It is the role of a Lean Practitioner to utilise the framework of Lean Six Sigma to help the organisation operate to its full potential, improve overall efficiency, and achieve business goals while removing waste. 

Many organisations now benefit from having a professional Lean Practitioner working within the business, including the manufacturing and finance industries. If you’re new to the world of Lean Six Sigma, read our Basics of Lean Six Sigma blog post to learn more.

In this article, we explore the basics of what a Lean Practitioner does, including what you can do to become a Lean Practitioner and what you can expect from your career prospects as a Lean Practitioner. 

How to become a Lean Practitioner

Lean Six Sigma combines two process improvement methodologies, “Lean” and “Six Sigma”. Together, these two systems make up Lean Six Sigma. It is important to note that Lean Practitioner is one of the steps to becoming a qualified ‘Lean Master’. The other steps in this journey are listed below: 

•  Lean Champion
•  Lean Practitioner
•  Lean Expert
•  Lean Master

Lean Six Sigma is like other project management methodologies in that official certification is required to prove your expertise in the field. Use our helpful guide to discover how to become a project manager. 

Manufacturing Sector

Lean Six Sigma continues to be used throughout the manufacturing industry. Many companies find that Lean Six Sigma processes significantly improve product quality and factory output. Lean Six Sigma helps companies slimline their manufacturing operations, thus reducing waste and cost while boosting the quality of their product. 

Finance Sector

Similarly, many financial organisations have implemented Lean Six Sigma methodologies to make their procedures faster and more efficient. For example, a major bank might have to process a large number of loan applications every day. In this situation, it makes sense for the bank to make the process as smooth and seamless as possible. Lean Six Sigma can help with this goal by getting rid of unnecessary steps that will slow the process down.  

Other industries which often utilise Lean Six Sigma include: 

•  Automotive & Transportation
•  Travel & Logistics
•  Mining
•  Chemical & Biotechnology
•  Education
•  Healthcare 
•  Electronics & Telecommunications
•  Entertainment
•  Professional Services
•  Food, Retail & Hospitality
•  Military

Where to get certified in Lean Six Sigma

Many Project Managers start their career by studying qualifications from organisations like e-Careers. We are proud to offer a wide range of globally recognised certifications, including Lean Six Sigma.

You don’t have to go to university or college to enter the world of project management. Combining practical work experience with Lean certifications is the most significant prerequisite for becoming a Lean project manager. Many job roles will specify that you need experience working in a more junior role such as a Project Management Assistant or Junior Project Manager, before applying to more established Lean Project Management roles.

Project Managers must have high organisational skills and demonstrate strong communications abilities while leading a team. 

Other key skills include:

•  A highly methodical approach to work.
•  An ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.
•  Excellent motivational skills to get the most out of your team.
•  Strong budgeting skills.
•  Negotiation skills.

Can you do the Lean Practitioner training online?

Yes, it is possible to complete your Lean Practitioner training online. More and more professionals are opting for online Lean Six Sigma courses as a convenient way of gaining new skills and shaping the progress of their career.  

You can learn either online or in a virtual classroom environment depending on your exact preferences. View all our Lean Six Sigma Courses here.

When you have earned your Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, you will have the knowledge and tools required to work as a Practitioner capable of implementing and sustaining high-impact projects.

CEPAS-accredited Lean Six Sigma Green Belt classroom courses are delivered by highly knowledgeable project management professionals. Our trainers hold practical industry knowledge of employing Lean Six Sigma methodology, providing you with high-quality training.

What is the average Lean Practitioner salary?

Once you have passed your Green Belt exam, you can apply for a range of jobs, including:

•  Lean/Continuous Improvement Engineer (Manufacturing) - £30k 
•  Quality & CI Engineer - £35k
•  Product Manager - £42k
•  Quality Manager - £43k 

(Source: Payscale)  

Interested in a training course? To get started or discuss your requirements in more detail, call our Course Consultants on +44 (0) 20 3198 7700 or fill out our contact form and someone will be in touch with you to go through your training options.